The Crichton Trust has announced the appointment of a new chief operating officer.
Rachel Cowper joined the team last week and will work closely with chief executive Gwilym Gibbons to drive forward the strategic ambitions of the trust.
She joined from the University of Glasgow where she was the programme director, responsible for the leadership and strategic management of Children’s Neighbourhoods Scotland programme.
Rachel has extensive experience and a successful track record in leading third and public-sector organisations, developing and implementing strategic plans and managing finances, people, organisations and change.
She is passionate about the health and wellbeing of children and young people and is an enthusiastic advocate for outdoor play and learning.
Mr Gibbons said: “It has been a challenging couple of years for everyone and as we emerge from the pandemic, I am delighted to welcome Rachel on board to further strengthen our senior leadership team at what is going to be an exciting, but intense, transformational period for businesses, organisations, communities and individuals.
“I am confident that Rachel’s skills and experience and our shared enthusiasm for health, wellbeing and the benefits of outdoor spaces will have a positive impact on the Crichton community and on our future achievements.”
As a core part of the role, Rachel will also oversee and support the heads of service – corporate business, venues, property and research and development – to fulfil their roles and will have responsibility for managing and developing teams, finances and partnerships at the Crichton.
Dr Ian Macmillan, chairman of trust board, said: “The Crichton Trust is in the early stages of implementing a new strategic plan, so we believe Rachel has the experience, qualities and values to complement, develop and support our existing team and will be an asset to the organisation going forward.
“I extend a very warm welcome to Rachel on behalf of my fellow trustees and wish her well in her endeavours at the Crichton.”
Rachel said: “I am honoured to be taking on the role of chief operating officer at The Crichton Trust and to have the opportunity to work in such a beautiful location with so much history and ambition.
“I fully resonate with the trust’s ambition to ensure that people of all ages will continue to have access to and benefit from the Crichton and all that it has to offer.
Rachel will be located in Grierson House and will meet with colleagues, tenants, trustees, partners and customers in the weeks ahead.
